The 2011 Proof Platinum Eagle is a significant release from the United States Mint, continuing a collectible series that began in 1997. Released on May 26, 2011, the one-ounce proof coin was priced at $2,092.00 and had a maximum mintage of 15,000 pieces.
The 2011 Proof Platinum Eagle is part of a long-standing tradition of high-quality platinum coins, which originally included four sizes: one ounce, 1/2 ounce, 1/4 ounce, and 1/10 ounce. However, in late 2008, the U.S. Mint announced the discontinuation of the fractional sizes, as well as the collectible Uncirculated Platinum Eagles, as part of a broader streamlining of its coin offerings. Despite these changes, the one-ounce proof coin continues to be available.
What sets the Proof Platinum Eagles apart from other American Eagle coins is their annually changing reverse designs. The 2011 release is the third coin in a six-year series inspired by the Preamble to the U.S. Constitution. The 2011 coin features the phrase “To Insure Domestic Tranquility,” continuing the themes from the previous two years, which highlighted “To Form a More Perfect Union” (2009) and “To Establish Justice” (2010). Future designs include the 2012 coin, which will depict “To Provide for the Common Defence,” followed by “To Promote the General Welfare” (2013) and “To Secure the Blessings of Liberty to Ourselves and our Posterity” (2014).
The obverse of every Platinum Eagle features the classic image of Lady Liberty, designed by U.S. Mint Chief Engraver John Mercanti. The reverse design for 2011, created by artist Joel Iskowitz, showcases the Harvest Goddess emerging from a field of wheat. This symbolic image represents the vast diversity and unity of the United States, with the goddess holding a stalk of wheat in one hand and extending the other hand toward a dove—symbolizing the fulfillment of domestic tranquility.
Each coin has a legal tender face value of $100, but its true worth lies in its platinum content and rarity. As a one-ounce coin of 99.95% platinum, the intrinsic melt value of the coin is tied to the current market price of platinum. Additionally, as a limited-edition numismatic product, the coin’s value is driven higher by its rarity and condition, making it a prized item among collectors.